NEW YORK — Maura Tierney says she is dropping out of the new NBC series "Parenthood" to continue her treatment for breast cancer.

In a statement Thursday, she expressed disappointment at not being part of the show, but said she and her doctors remain confident about the outcome of her treatment.

Tierney had filmed the pilot episode for the series, which was scheduled to premiere this month. But she was sidelined in July, after a tumor was found in her breast, requiring surgery. Production never resumed.

Another new series, the medical drama "Mercy," will premiere this fall instead.

"Parenthood," based on the 1989 movie that starred Steve Martin, is now set to debut midseason.

Tierney's role — that of a financially strapped single mother who returns home to her parents — is expected to be recast.

NBC expressed sadness at Tierney leaving the series, but added, "our main concern is for her quick and full recovery."

Tierney, 44, was a longrunning cast member of the NBC drama "ER" and recently has been seen on the FX drama "Rescue Me."

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I wish Maura a full and complete recovery and look forward to seeing her back on TV in the future!

I wish her a full recovery. She is a wonderful actress.

I also wish Maura well in the future.

But, for the show, it's over. NBC should consider just letting it go now. Maura was the main draw. Without her, I can't see it going much further.

I'm so sorry to hear that. I hope and pray that Maura has a full and speedy recovery!!

I am also sorry to here that Get well Maura

This sucks.

I hope everything turns out good for her, health-wise. It's a shame about the show, but she's a good actress, and I have a feeling she'll be back with another project when the time is right.

I'm a little dissapointed to find out that "Parenthood" isn't being replaced by "My Name Is Earl." This would have been a good time to un-cancel it and resume the show for it's fifth season.

All the best wishes, Maura.

I also wish Maura well in the future.

But, for the show, it's over. NBC should consider just letting it go now. Maura was the main draw. Without her, I can't see it going much further.
Well, Craig T. Nelson is in it, too. He's not exactly a no-name. But it'll be interesting to see what happens.